Officials have seized over 230 dogs and cats from a California shelter under “inhumane” conditions, according to authorities.
Animal control officers seized the animals from the rescue shelter, in southern California, said authorities on Tuesday (Nov. 1). This comes after a search warrant was served last week at the property in the Antelope Valley, around 60 miles northeast of Los Angeles, according to a statement from the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control.
Complaints About the California Shelter
Officials also found several dead animals at the property, which they investigated after receiving multiple complaints. Allegedly, the facility exceeded animal limits and didn’t provide medical care for animals, also not complying with state and county laws.
Authorities permitted the facility, which officials haven’t yet named, to handle 115 cats and an unspecified number of dogs. However, animal control officers found 195 cats, 43 dogs, and six dead animals. 25 Animal Care and Control staff were part of the search, including a forensic veterinarian and animal cruelty investigators.
Officials also claimed that those running the facility tried to avoid random inspections and used medications improperly.
“Inhumane Living Conditions”
Director of Animal Care and Control Marcia Mayeda explained that both local and state law require facilities and provide “safe and humane care”. “Our department stands committed to protecting animals and ensuring they receive the care they need”, she continued.
The agency then said: “Findings in the facility included animals in inhumane living conditions and evidence of the practice of medical care without a veterinary license … Animal rescue organizations are responsible for providing the basic needs for housing, nutrition, and health of all animals in their care,” the agency said. “The quality of life of the animals must be a priority”.
The animals seized have been taken to seven care centers in Los Angeles County, where they’re getting evaluated and treated. They won’t be available for adoption straight away.
The person in charge at the shelter could be facing four counts of felony animal cruelty, according to officials.
